TW Magazine July/August

Issue #2 | July/August 2018

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Welcome to Issue #2 Editor's Note

Welcome to Issue #2 of our online magazine, TW. I'd like to start by saying thank you to all who took the time to read the debut issue since it's release in May - the response and feedback has been very encouraging!

I had the pleasure of hosting another of our popular Ladies Night social networking events a few days ago and while the night itself went off without a hitch and everyone who attended enjoyed themselves, looking back on our event now is twinged with a touch of sadness with the news of the venue, Crown on Palmer, closing it's doors for the final time.

Crown was owned by a young local family and highlights the need, now more than ever, that we must support our local business owners. I've offered our online Directory Listings free of charge for over a year now and will continue to do so for local business listings. This is just one of many ways I endeavour to support local businesses with alternate marketing options that don't come with a hefty price tag.

You can help our mission by continuing to follow our magazine, website and socials, while also sharing our message with your friends and family. Together we can all make a difference!

Til next time, Bec Townsend Founder & Owner of Townsville Women

Contents Meet our Cover Star 4-5 New in Business 6-7 Amber Henderson 8 Rebecca Baker 9 Tracey Bannerman 10-11 Alison Rogers 12 Matthew Allen Photography 13 Alligator Creek 16-21 Winter Shopping 22-23 Winter Health 24 Don't take Winter Off 25 Your Photos 26-27 Enkindle Village School 28 Restore before Replace 29 Benefits of Massage 30 Sundalah 32 Return of Spirituality 33 Pamper Mini Market 34 Beliefs Pt. 2 35 Ross Noble 36 Redefine Your Future 37 Protecting Financial Future 39 Poppin Mad 40-43 Not Just Cars 45 Ladies Night 46 Words from a Celebrant 47 Career in Security 48-49

TW Magazine has been collated and published online by Townsville Women ABN 35 834 773 406. Images used throughout this publication have been supplied by content contributors, are owned by Townsville Women or are stock images released under CC License. Do not reproduce any content without express written permission from Townsville Women. townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 3

Meet our Cover Star

Danielle Malpas

No grey and dreary winter here thanks! Flowers can be the perfect way to brighten up a chilly winter's day and our cover star, Danielle, has captured this feeling with her beautiful bouquet, floral dress and outdoor backdrop.

Danielle is the owner of The Rose Cottage Florist, a new boutique florist that services the local Townsville area. Owner Danielle Malpas loves creating beautiful vintage inspired bouquets and floral arrangements; and incorporates quality scented grandiflora cottage roses in her work when seasonally available. Danielle believes that scented roses have a magic that mass produced roses lack. Danielle states that “Fragrant roses and flowers evoke romance and memories. A fragrant bouquet tells a story – and that each story is unique to the individual who receives those flowers. That is why we recall the memory behind the gesture long after the flowers have gone” Mixed cottage posies, boxed flower arrangements and sunflower bouquets are just some of the flower arrangements available for sale online through The Rose Cottage Florist website, however the vintage teacup posies are considered the ‘crown jewel’ item.

Meet the Photographer: Sarah Irene Photography "A completely random chance in high school landed me in a local photography studio. In that week of work experience I fell in love with photography and began to realise how much of an impact the art form can have.

There is something beautiful & magical about capturing those perfect moments"

sarahirenephotography@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/sarahirenephotography PAGE 4 | townsvillewomen.com

Hair & Makeup by Kristalz Hair Studio

Danielles’ Top 5 Care Tips for your Floral Arrangements • Never transport flowers in a hot vehicle or leave them in the car while you run errands.

“I source genuine vintage teacup duos and trios through antique vendors throughout Australia for the sole purpose of up styling each set into a gorgeous teacup posy.

Royal Albert, Queen Anne, Royal Vale and Colclough are some of the reputable collectables available. They have been very popular and suit every occasion.

They are particularly popular as hospital flowers as their smaller size allows them to display perfectly on a hospital night stand. Choosing a teacup posy is easy too, just choose your preferred tea set from the website and it will be loaded with a posy of scented roses and seasonal cottage blooms and delivered to your lucky recipient.

As a home-based business, Danielle does not have the overheads as other Floristry businesses therefore can offer flowers at an affordable price.

Care cards and flower food are also included with every arrangement to assist you to care for your flowers once they are home.

Danielle explains “that taking a few minutes everyday to care for your flowers will provide a longer time to enjoy your display”.

• Remove your flowers (for bouquets) from the plastic sleeve as soon as possible to avoid sweating. Ask your florist to wrap your flowers in tissue paper instead of using plastic (also better for the environment!)

• For bouquets cut the flower stems immediately when you get home and place your flowers into water with the flower food. Change the water in your vase every second day, remove decaying foliage and recut the ends of your stems too.

• Add water to your boxed arrangement every day.

• Do not display your flowers near fruit, as the ethylene gas produced by fruit will speed up the death of your flowers. Car and petrol fumes will destroy your flowers too.

Every occasion is the perfect reason for gifting a teacup posy!

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 5

n i n e m o W s s e n i s u B

We talk with North Queensland women who started a new phase in their lives as Business

Find out about the businesses they've launch lessons they've learnt and what helps them to path to success...

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Amber Henderson Verde Lifeware Ingham

Alison Rogers Connected Words Townsville

Rebecca Baker Play It Beck Townsville

o have recently s owners.

hed, the o stay on their

Tracey Bannerman Creations A Plenty Townsville

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 7

Introducing

Amber Henderson This Ingham resident has created an eco-friendly business that she works around a day job and her family. We get to know Amber and how Verde Lifeware was born...

Hi Amber! Congratulations on the launch of Verde Lifeware, your new business! Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Thank you. I’m an ex-pat kiwi and have called Ingham home for the past 5 years, along with my partner who is a local, and our 2 young boys. We live just out of Ingham and spend our time at home hanging out with our kids, working in the yard and the vege garden, and looking after our pet mini pigs and chooks. I also work part time as an oral health therapist at 1300 Smiles Ingham.

What led to your decision to start up your own business?

Since becoming a parent I have become more aware and concerned about plastic use around my family.

I felt I wanted to share the message with others and encourage small, easy changes to reduce plastic use, for both health and environmental reasons. Because it is a personal interest it is also very fulfilling and gives me time to think and achieve goals outside of work and family commitments.

Is this your first business venture?

Yes. I’ve had some valuable help from my sister who knows more about the intricacies of business accounting and marketing, and am able to bounce general ideas off her and my circle of friends who are all

very supportive.

What lessons have you learnt so far in your start-up phase?

I’ve learnt to allocate time for different areas of my life. There was a patch where I became quite consumed by it all and wasn’t taking the time out to look after myself properly, but I’ve worked through that by making a conscious effort to switch off at a reasonable time at night.

Verde Lifeware has launched at a time where focus on reusable and eco-friendly items is increasing.

What product excites you the most?

Being an oral health therapist I see a lot of plastic waste through plastic toothbrushes. I remember a poignant moment looking at a pile of plastic toothbrushes ready to give to my patients, feeling like it was wrong, and wanting to do something about it. Our bamboo toothbrushes feel nice in your hand, and have lovely soft bristles which is what we recommend as dental professionals.

What advice do you have for those of us wanting to adapt to a more eco friendly lifestyle but aren’t sure where to start?

Small changes can be easy and free.

Try to reuse before throwing out or recycling. Glass jars are perfect for storing dry foods in the pantry, or leftovers in the fridge or freezer.

TW Readers: receive 15% off your Verde Lifeware order when you enter TW15 at the checkout PAGE 8 | townsvillewomen.com

Recycle soft plastics which can be done through most supermarkets.

Buy second hand when you can.

Choose products packaged in paper rather than plastic. Once your thinking starts to shift you naturally start to make more environmentally friendly choices.

Do you have any words of wisdom for other women considering opening up their own business, particularly in the e-commerce sector?

Get in touch with like-minded people and build your support network, as things are a lot easier and enjoyable when you have people who you can talk to about your ideas and are encouraging. If you feel like you don’t have the time, make a list and just chip away at it slowly.

There are a lot of resources and DIY information on the internet about setting up a small business, help with designing a professional logo, website building, etc.

And finally, how can our readers get in touch or find more info about Verde Lifeware?

Please see our Instagram and Facebook @verdelifeware for eco tips and relevant environmental news, and our website for our newly launched products www. verdelifeware.com Our products are also in store at Green Jelly Kitchen and Homewares in Ingham. We will be adding items as we find ones enabling easy and meaningful changes.☺

Introducing

Rebecca Baker After starting out as a volunteer group fitness facilitor, Rebecca is now dancing her way to success as a Zumba® Instructor and new business owner.

Hi Rebecca and congratulations on launching your business, Play It Beck! Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Thanks! My husband and I moved from the Sunshine Coast to Townsville (via Tasmania, then Cardwell) in 2007, before the birth our first son. Now that it’s 2018, my eldest is turning 11, my second son is 8, followed by my daughters, 5 & 3. As with a lot of ‘Townsvillians’ I know, our extended family is not local; we miss them dearly, and sometimes it can seem a tough gig.

For me, having hobbies is certainly a big part of retaining ‘me’ in the midst of parenthood, as such I pursue sewing, gardening, & ‘homesteading’ in the pockets of free time I find.

What led you to the decision to open up your business?

Small business is in my genes! My father continues (at 75 years of age) to run his own business and has done

for longer than I have known him.

I wanted the freedom to work, without having to relinquish the precious few years my children are at home with me before starting school. After a ‘false start’ for Play It Beck back in 2012, I am now in a better space to work on my business and commit to it long-term.

When did you start your journey with Zumba®️?

I am actually quite new to Zumba®. At the encouragement of a close friend together we began attending lessons with the talented Anastasia at Latin Vibrations (LV) in the latter half of 2016.

I was volunteering for MEGA (Mums Exercise Group Australia) and the opportunity came to have formal training. I applied for a Zumba® Instructor Course and was approved!

In May 2017 I became an Instructor and with the encouragement and support from Jodie, Sandra & Anastasia at LV I began my first classes later that year. I am completing additional training in August to complement my Basic Training and offer diversity in my business.

In your opinion, what is it about Zumba® that makes it so popular?

It’s the original dance party! I don’t see so many people smiling and laughing at those Tyre-flipping, battle-roping sessions.

For me, Zumba® is not so much about being technically correct, and I believe a lot of people find it refreshing, that a dance class can be so enjoyable, without pressure to perform, without complicated choreography, (and a sneaky lot of fitness thrown in). Each class is as individual as the Instructor themselves. Also, there are different specialities available designed for kids, people with disabilities, fitness fanatics and the general public making Zumba® a world-wide & respected brand.

What are some of the health benefits of Zumba®?

A total workout, combining all elements of fitness – cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility, boosted energy and a serious dose of

awesome each time you leave class.

I personally have experienced all of the above plus reduced anxiety and depression. And a little ‘me’ time as a bonus.

When not shaking your tail feather with Zumba®, is there another form of exercise that you enjoy?

To be frank, I am so grateful to be able to do pretty much what I want, as my Mum and brother have both been affected by a disease which limits their ability to do certain forms of exercise. More can be found about this disease at https://www.debra. org.au. I use this as motivation and inspiration to keep active. I enjoy Pilates and walking slightly less than Zumba®.

Do you have any words of wisdom for other women considering opening up their own business?

I’m so new to this, and I am learning as I go, but my advice is this: Find something that you truly believe in.

Be kind. Seek to make connections and work WITH people (yes, even your competitors!) as best you can.

And finally, how can our readers get in touch or find more info about your Zumba® classes?

For the online people, PLEASE ‘like’ my business page www.facebook.com/playitbeck where class times are, or a message can be sent to me. Or if you like the good old fashioned phone call, call me on 0409250085.☺ townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 9

Introducing

Tracey Bannerman Tracey Bannerman was looking for a creative outlet and this has led to her launching Creations A Plenty, a homewares and gift business...

Hi Tracey! Congratulations of the successful start to your new business Creations A Plenty. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’ve lived in Townsville for almost 30 years now, having moved up here while I was in my early years at high school. My partner and four children; ranging in age from 6 to 24, keep me very busy at times. I love spending time with my family, photography, watching movies, reading, playing Monopoly with my children, crafts, catching up with friends over a

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cuppa, etc. The list could go on forever.

Describe your business for us?

Creations A Plenty is a combination of handmade, personalised items, home decor, decals, signs, etc. Perfect for gift ideas, and any occasion.

What led to your decision to start up your own business?

I’ve always loved drawing, scrapbooking, crafts, etc, so I thought I would take that one step further and turn it into a business. All of my children are either in school or

working, so it was time to return to work myself, but I wanted something that would fit around my family so that I could be there for them and not have to continually miss things such as sports training, school activities, and so on.

So in early November last year, Creations A Plenty officially became a registered business.

What lessons have you learnt so far in your start-up phase?

The biggest lesson I have learnt so far would have to be actually getting started. It is so easy to have self doubts as to whether you have made the right choice, if you’ve really thought it through as to what’s involved. Whether you have the time to dedicate to get it up and running, and when you throw a family and house into the mix…yes you do start to doubt yourself at times.

I know I have. There have been times where I have just thought its not going to work out. You just have to push through that initial stage and move onto the next stage, which is getting yourself out there. Letting people know about your new and exciting business that you’ve just started up. Most importantly, you have to stay positive. If

you continually doubt yourself, then you are holding yourself back. I have spoken to many lovely people over the last few months and it has really helped me realise that this business is my dream, and in order for that dream to have a chance I needed to start believing in myself.

In your opinion, what is the best part about running your own business?

For those that don’t know me, family is everything to me. Being able to go to my children’s sports days at school, or going to their sports games on the weekends is something I don’t want to miss out

on. I don’t want to be a parent who is absent from a lot of things in their lives, as I don’t think it is fair on them, and its probably a little bit selfish on my part, but they grow up so quickly. For those reasons alone, I would have to say that the best part about running my own business means I can set my own hours, and for the most part, work around family obligations and commitments. I know I am lucky in some ways because I know there are so many parents out there who don’t have that opportunity. I felt I had to create an opportunity that would hopefully work for me and in the longrun, work for my family as well.

Where would you like to see your business expanding to over the next few years?

Eventually I would like to grow the business so that I can have workshop classes for people to come along and have a go at making things themselves. It’s a great feeling

of accomplishment when you have made and completed a project, and that is something that I would like to pass onto others.

Do you have any words of wisdom for other women considering opening up their own business?

Make sure it is something you will enjoy doing. Something you are passionate about. There is nothing worse than doing something every day if you hate it.

And finally, how can our readers get in touch or find more info about Creations A Plenty?

Creations A Plenty can be found on: Facebook and Instagram. In the very near future, I hope to have a website up and running.☺

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Introducing

Alison Rogers An overwhelming love of reading and writing has led Townsville local, Alison Rogers, to enter the business world with her first business, Connected Words.

Hi Alison! Congratulations on the new business! Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Hi! I was born in Townsville, and I’ve been back living here for nine years. I have a full house of young people; my son is still in school, my two daughters are studying, and my daughter’s boyfriend is living with us too. We’re also a proud dog and cat family.

I have worked in public, school, and uni libraries where I have heavily promoted reading, including hosting a pop-up library at the beach.

I enjoy exploring digital technology, and figuring out how to use the different platforms to engage with everyone from friends to colleagues and clients.

I started with a successful non-profit website in 2006, then branched into blogs and social media and now I’m running my online business. Two words I live by are kindness and equality. Equality was the first tattoo I got last year, but as a symbol not a word. I went back to University to study editing and publishing and I loved it so much I set up as a freelancer.

What have you learnt so far through the start-up journey?

There are so many women running small businesses in Townsville. Everyone is approachable and generous with sharing information. I received great advice on building a website from a friend who has an online consultancy business in New Zealand. I also found the Queensland Government small business website useful.

We have a friendly community of writers and editors in Townsville, and networking with these groups has helped me plan a direction for PAGE 12 | townsvillewomen.com

my business. I’ve learned more about the graphic design process from Allison Lambert (AlLa Designs), who designed my branding.

My eldest daughter helps me build my digital media content to promote the business. I was happy when I realised that the skills and knowledge I’ve developed in libraries, in management, and as a parent, are all useful on this new journey.

What led to you starting up Connected Words?

I had an inspirational lecturer at Uni who runs a publishing collective, and I have always enjoyed the voices coming from indie publishers. I discovered a few Australian freelance editors had done the same Uni course as I had, which gave me confidence to set up my own business. It’s my first business venture, that was a motivator; I like to try new things. I want to work with writers; whether that’s for their business reports, articles, news mailouts, or manuscripts from our talented local writers. I enjoy all aspects of editing, from the basics like checking spelling and grammar, to the more in depth work on the style, language and format.

What is it about writing that excites you?

Everything. Words have the power to heal, and to connect people. As long as there are people around, there will be stories and many ways to share them. I love the short, sharp, emotional power of fast fiction. When a storyteller can make you cry, or laugh uproariously, or think deeply, with a story of 100 words, that’s impressive. Novelists have so many more words and pages to work with, and

I certainly have my favourites there too. In the early days, I discovered I could write book reviews for organisations and get paid in books. How cool is that?

When not writing for your business, do you enjoy writing for pleasure?

Yes! I grew up writing stories. My parents read us stories, bought us books, encouraged us to use the library, and took us to plays. I’m now writing my own playscripts. I have written an online training module, and journal articles on library management. I wrote stories for my kids when they were small, and I’m researching family history to write a historical fiction novel about my great grandmother.

I made a few zines before I moved to Townsville, so I was excited to visit Sticky Institute in Melbourne in February to pick up other people’s handmade zines.

I enjoy writing in many forms because it’s all about expressing yourself, connecting with other people, and sharing a story. As an editor I hope to help others find that same spark.

Can you tell us a little about being a member of Townsville Writers and Publishers Centre?

I joined TWPC in its early days, and I participated in some junior writers’ workshops and poetry festival events.

I joined again this year after completing my editing course because

I wanted creativity back in my life.

Everyone at the Centre is so energising, we’re all there because we love writing. We explore different writing forms at Verb Writers’ group, and we focus on our own work-in-progress at Shut Up and Write sessions at the Centenary Hotel. TWPC will be publishing an anthology of local writers’ short stories so I’m going to put my editor’s hat on to help with that.

What advice can you share for other business owners when writing their own copy?

It is important to focus on your audience first and last. How does your product help them? What can your business do for them? You should en-

gage with your audience, and follow up with them. I advocate being concise and consistent, because people don’t have time to waste. If you want to check you’re on track, or want to share your story more effectively, I’m happy to work through your copy or help you develop it. I love working with words and people with a vision.

Where can we find out more about your business Connected Words?

Join me online: Website connectedwords.com.au Email connectedwords.alison@ gmail.com Instagram @connectedwords Facebook connectedwords.alison☺

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www.matthewallenphotography.com.au M: 0418 466 060 E: info@matthewallenphotography.com.au Facebook : Matthew Allen Photography

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Palm Creek Folk Festival 2018 Photo by Townsville Women

Do you run a community group or organisation? Would you like us to help spread the word about your cause with a profile article an upcoming issue of TW? Reach out to us at hello@townsvillewomen.com

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 15

Alligator Creek

Bowling Green Bay Natio

Written by Melissa Littlejohn Intrepid Tales of a Quirky Girl PAGE 16 | townsvillewomen.com

onal Park

What would you say if I told you that Alligator Creek was a great place to go swimming for the day while you’re in Townsville? What?! Alligator Creek? Yes - Alligator Creek!

Don’t worry, we don’t have alligators in Australia, but we do have crocodiles! Luckily for us, the crocodiles do not inhabit the swimming area of Alligator Creek.

Alligator Creek flows through Bowling Green Bay National Park which is situated approximately 25 km south of Townsville, North Queensland. Bowling Green Bay National Park covers 57,900 ha of coastal and mountainous country extending from Cleveland Bay on the coast through to inland Mount Elliot. As a result, the habitats of the park range from coastal mangroves (where the crocs are) to rainforest covered mountain tops. A plethora of scenery for the avid nature lover!

But I’m not here to rabbit on about the statistics of the park!

Noooo, I’m here to let you know how to get the best out of your day trip to Alligator Creek.

How to Get There There is no public transport so you will need to hire a car if you don’t already have one. Access is suitable for conventional vehicles so a 4WD is not necessary. From Townsville, head south on the Bruce Highway towards Ayr and turn right onto Alligator Creek Road just passed the Caltex Roadhouse. If you cross over Alligator Creek, you’ve missed the turn-off.

What’s There?

Camping: with multiple camping areas ranging from remote camping opportunities, no facilities to one with facilities, you are sure to find what you’re looking for. As with all national parks in Australia, you need a permit to camp and fees apply. Hot tip: there are no bins so make sure you secure your rubbish when you’re there to prevent intruding animals and take it with you when you leave.

Day use area: has picnic tables, shelter shed, gas barbecues and toilets perfect for large groups!

Swimming area: perfect to cool off on those hot, summer, Townsville days! Be careful after rain as water levels along the creek can rise rapidly.

Hiking Trails: whether you choose an easy 1 km return walk to the lookout or a difficult 17 km return hike to the falls, make sure you’re prepared.

Nature spotting: the diversity of habitat supports a large and varied population of many native and migrating species. Hot tip: never feed the animals - this can affect their health and alter the balance of the natural population. townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 17

What to pack before you go: • Drinking water • Food/snacks • First aid kit (especially if hiking) • Fuel stove (fires and generators are not permitted for camping) • Sealable container for rubbish (especially if camping)

beak make short work of smashing its prey onto the barrier to break it apart into swallowable chunks. The sound was much like a woodpecker in slow motion. Clock. Clock. Clock.

Impressive.

I managed to get some photos and video, but nothing decent. The full zoom of my phone and my low-toOk, so now to the fun part! I’m about the-ground creeping did not make to share with you my experience for steady focus. Obviously a proper with doing a day trip to Alligator camera with suitable lens and tripod Creek and the tips that I learned upon is needed. my visit. Strap yourselves in, it’s Not far up the path to the swimming going to be a roller coaster ride of hole I felt the eyes of someone adventure! watching me. I was wrong. It was not someone, but something. I almost didn’t see it. So beautifully camouflaged against the gum tree forest background was a wallaby staring directly at me. I did what any normal human would do - I said hello. I asked him to wait patiently while I took his photo.

He obliged. I realise at this point it could have been a girl. I will never know. It then took a few Tip #1 - ALWAYS have your camera short bounds and disappeared into the handy! bush.

The minute we parked it was on! I Ten minutes! I was only here for 10 shot out of the car with my phone minutes and had already spotted two camera at the ready. I had spotted cool native animals. a kookaburra upon arrival perched A little further along the path I on one of the parking bay barriers. spotted an elderly couple sniffing a These are one of my most favourite tree. I felt strangely impulsed to go birds and are notorious for not ever and also sniff that tree after they were letting you get too close. For such finished. You know when you see a small bird it is hard to imagine someone doing something so odd you why there was ever a nursery rhyme just feel like you’ve got to go and written about them with lyrics stating do it too to see what all the fuss is “Merry, merry king of the bush is about?! Maybe that’s just me! he!”, until you see one eat its prey.

Anyway, they beat me to it. As I Clinical. Ruthless. Efficient. All approached they turned to me with the makings for a psychopath...well, big smiles and the woman asked maybe I’m getting a bit dramatic!

“Have you smelled the native Unlike the song mentions, they are gardenia flower?” carnivorous. Their specially adapted, “Oh, is that what you’re smelling? long, straight beak is a weapon I wondered what captured your they’ve mastered. As I crept closer, I attention! No I haven’t smelled it could see the kookaburra’s powerful yet.”

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“Oh be sure to do so, love! And did you see the native hibiscus flowers yet? They’re on the ground.”

My boyfriend piped up, “Ahh I was going to rip them out! I thought they were weeds.”

With a chuckle she said, “No dear.

Beautiful natives. Oh and if you want a private swimming spot all to yourselves be sure to take a left at the shade cloth as you go up the hill.

You’ll have to bush-bash for a bit, but it’s worth it. A swimming hole the size of two Olympic swimming pools

and deep too. No-one knows about it!”

“Ok, thanks!” I said. “Have a good day.”

Two Olympic swimming pools... that’s an oddly specific description I thought to myself. Maybe that wasn’t a native gardenia they were sniffing…

We searched for far too long for this ‘shade cloth’ marker to turn left at. As I waited for my boyfriend to explore a potential lead, the aroma of jasmine filled my nostrils. Jasmine is the only flower I can pick by smell.

I searched everywhere for where the scent was coming from only to find it was right in front of me! I hate it when that happens.

I filled up my camera roll with photos of native plants and animals. Always keep your camera handy. And remember the golden rule of national

parks: take only pictures and leave only footprints.

Tip #2: Prepare to swim!

We did find the swimming hole that was the size of two Olympic swimming pools. The old couple were definitely on something other than native gardenia as I would hardly say it was this large. Sure, it could fit eight lanes of swimmers, in some sections - but it definitely did not span 100m. I mean, I didn’t measure it….but it wasn’t 100m.

And you didn’t have to bush-bash to get there. Just follow the path.

Another great tip for national parks: stay on the path to preserve the native vegetation.

Now at this point I need to be clear that the alleged Olympic sized swimming hole is a decent walk passed the lookout. The first

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 19

swimming area, which is where most people stop, is only a few hundred metres walk from the carpark. So if you’re not up for a walk - no worries!

It’s a decent spot with plenty of easy access points to the creek. I don’t really like crowds so I always explore further, plus you get to experience a lot more along the way.

We had the Olympic swimming pool to ourselves. Access was slippery so you have to be careful on entering and exiting the water on the algaecovered rocks. I would recommend a specialised pair of rock shoes for swimming as they provide better grip and protect your feet from the rocks.

Even a gentle breaststroke can result in a stubbed toe from a protruding rock.

I also wish I had have packed the snorkel and mask to be able to explore the deeper parts of the creek. It’s even just a great spot for practising your duck-dives as there were plenty of sections where I couldn’t touch the bottom. Bear in mind that we were there in March which is at the end of Townsville’s wet season and the area had just had a major rain event bring plenty of water to the creek. I cannot vouch for how deep it would be during the dry season. Another item I’d recommend taking is an inflatable pool ring so you can just chill out and go with the flow.

PAGE 20 | townsvillewomen.com

The area we were in didn’t have much shade so be prepared to be exposed to the harsh North Queensland sun! If you are not from Australia you won’t understand just how strong the sun is in this part of the world.

If you do not protect yourself, you will get roasted! They don’t call us the skin cancer capital of the world for no reason!

I’m talking widebrimmed hat, sun safe clothing, sunglasses and 50+ sunscreen - non of this 30+ nonsense or being content with your make-up having SPF in it - you need the real stuff! I did not abide by my own rules the day I went and consequently got sunburnt. You’ll see me in the photos strutting my fluorescent white body about - silly, silly girl. I of all people should know better!

Tip #3: Enjoy the digital detox!

You are likely to not have phone reception or wifi access at Alligator Creek. Enjoy it. Unplug. Even if

it’s just for a couple of hours, soak up the natural surrounds and appreciate what is right before your eyes.

If you’re feeling adventurous do the 17 km round trip hike to the falls. I haven’t done this hike yet as it’s far too hot in the summer months for me to want to walk in the humid forest for 17 km, but once the weather cools off I’ll be straight up there! It’s predicted to take about 5-6 hours

so what better way to digital detox than to ensure you cannot connect to anything except nature for that time?!

Make sure you leave in the morning though to ensure a safe return during sunlight hours. And take plenty of drinking water!!!

Whether you’re a nature lover, camping enthusiast or just simply

want a nice place to cool off then Alligator Creek is for you. Just remember: have your camera handy, prepare to swim and enjoy the digital detox.

For more stories like this visit:

@intrepidtalesofaquirkygirl

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 21

Here in Townsville we do things a little differently in Winter.

Rather than stay indoors beside the fire, we relish in the cooler weather and head outside to soak up the sunshine!

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1. Mystic Quartz Natural Soap. $10. Steph's Soaps / Facebook & Instagram 2. A Winter's Ale Craft Beer. Townsville Brewery / townsvillebrewery.com.au 3. Outdoors Bamboo L/S Shirt. $59. Sea Boss Apparel / seabossapparel.com.au 4. LipSense Gloss. $26. Townsville Hotlips / senegence.com/hotlips 5. Liquid Sunshine Tinted Self Tanner. $74. Georgie Eddington / georgieeddington.arbonne.com 6. Concrete Planter & Tasmanian Oak Pot Stand. $50. Bespoke Designer Living / bespokedesignerliving.com.au 7. Nerium Body Firm Cream. Veronique Bickerstaff / ezicare.nerium.com townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 23

Winter doesn't have to be Sneezin' Season

by Natalie Waugh from One Natural Life

W

inter in the tropics really sneaks up on us. We don’t get that bone-chilling cold and dreary weather, rather a transition to cool evenings and beautiful, fresh days.

It’s such a lovely time of year.

To make sure you can enjoy it to it’s fullest, you want to ensure that you and your family are feeling your best.

Like the rest of the country, we still get colds and flus, and the general winter blues. So, we need to equip ourselves and build some resilience so we can kick feeling crap to the curb!

What can we do?

Keeping in tip top physical and emotional health is key during this time, as it gives our bodies the energy to focus on fighting the bad guys, rather than fighting itself. Below are a few key things we can work on to give ourselves the best chance at staying healthy:

Eating healthy and helpful foods Make vegies the focus of your meals as much as possible. Experiment with some “glorious greens”, such as kale, broccoli, cabbage, spinach and bok choy. Green vegetables are high in key things our body needs to maintain health and establish a strong immune system such as calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, and vitamins A, C and K, as well fiber, folic acid and many other micronutrients.

Bone broth and fermented foods are also excellent foods to incorporate to assist with gut health and immune support. Soup anyone?

Stay hydrated Drink water. Dehydration is less noticeable during winter so have a refillable drink bottle close to hand and keep track of how many times you refill it to get an idea of how much you’re drinking. A rough guide for most is a couple of litres a day.

and hating it!

Create a supportive environment By supportive I mean as low-tox as possible. Take a look at your indoor environment and see what sort of harmful chemicals you might be exposed to. Also, make it a point to see what toxins may be in your skin care, make-up and anything else that goes on your body. All these things contribute to our body’s toxic load, and it can only cope with so much.

Wouldn’t you rather it was dealing with fighting off colds and flus, rather than chemicals?

If you do succumb, and the lurgy hits, please try and rest up rather than soldier on, your body will thank you for it and so will everyone else.

Natalie is an Integrative Health Coach who is passionate about Exercise regularly helping people discover the path to Now is the perfect time to be getting outside and moving around. Not only their best selves and feeling fantasdo you get the benefit of physical ex- tic. Check out One Natural Life on ercise, but also fresh air and sunshine, Facebook for great tips and upcomboth vital components in maintaining ing events, or contact her at natalie@ your health. Get walking, jogging, or onenaturallife.com.au if you want to book a FREE session to discover how grab your bike, as long as it’s somehealth coaching can help you.☺ thing you enjoy. No point exercising

PAGE 24 | townsvillewomen.com

Don't take Winter off, Take It On!

by Cassie Woolfe from Jazzercise Townsville

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e love the excuse “but its cold” every time our conscience tells us to get up and workout. Although winter in Townsville is beautiful most days, the mornings and nights can be, well a bit chilly!

So how do you keep motivated and stick to it?

Here are my 10 tips for keeping your fitness goals during those winter months.

Make a Plan – and be prepared to change it. This can be as simple as working out 5 times a week or making sure to walk on your lunch break. Appointments and schedules may change, and all you need to do then is readjust your plan.

Buy Workout Clothes – This is a commitment and you will need them! I find laying them out the night before helps me stay on track. When I see them first thing in the morning its like they’re calling to me “put me on, you’ve got this” Work Out for A Reason – Like goal-setting, make sure you are working towards something. Do you want to be more flexible? Stronger?

Healthier? Whatever motivates you to reach that next goal.

Drink More Water and Eat Well – We are made of water; you need to replenish it.

You should drink 0.033 of a litre of water per day for every kilogram of bodyweight. Drink coffee/tea? Then you need to have an extra glass of water for each cup, as caffeine will dehydrate you. Try to give your body lots of fruits, vegetables, and protein to make your calories work for you, not against you.

Plan an Event – An active event.

Maybe a charity walk or run. Give yourself an actual date to work towards. Having that date set on the calendar really promotes activity.

Get a Workout Buddy – Everything is better with friends! Having another person holding you accountable is a huge help. They give you the motivation you need to head out of the comforts of home and maybe a much needed social catch up after/ during your workout!

Track Your Progress – Whether you like to track numbers on the scales, measurements, clothes fitting better,

or your general health and wellbeing.

Give yourself a way to note your successes. I personally love taking photos and measurements when I’m trying to lose extra kgs, the scales aren’t always your friend.

Reward Yourself – Speaking of successes, celebrate them! Setting short term goals helps you stay motivated to achieve them. E.g.: maybe you’ve spotted something at the shops that you want, but you want to earn it. Make a note of your goal on the calendar and when you reach that goal, go get it!

Keep a Food Journal – Tracking your daily food intake holds you accountable. Calories add up! My fitness pal is a great online/app tracker you can use to record not only your food and water but exercise aswell. You can also share and connect with friends.

Have Fun – Enjoy what you are doing. If you are looking forward to your workout, you’re more likely to do it and lets face it, if it isn’t fun, there isn’t any point.

Speaking about fun, Jazzercise Townsville has a Winter Bingo Challenge running all winter.

Complete fun challenges in and out of class to WIN! Our challenges keep you motivated and excited about your winter workout. Simply sign up in class and grab your bingo card to get started.

Don’t take Winter off, Take it on!☺

@jazzercisetownsville townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 25

Share Your Photos With Us! Send in your photos to hello@townsvillewomen.com to feature in the next issue of TW!

PAGE 26 | townsvillewomen.com

Contributors clockwise from top left: On The Ball Photography; Karen Trindle; Cath Forsyth; Kim Ritchie; Barbara Griesau; Rebecca Baker; Katherine Thompson; Sherrene Watterson; Mel Davies townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 27

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Restore before Replace

by Deni Knuth

I did look up to see what Dr Google I don’t say this to complicate a relasays about roof restoration and the tively simple process of adding a valdefinition ranges from “using high- ue and lifespan to your home and conly-engineered coating products to "re- tents, but rather to get you interested store" an existing roof to a like-new and savvy when it comes to maintaincondition” to “roof restoration is the ing your roof. process of replacing the existing tiles Did you know that the roof makes on the roof with new up for 30% of the total ones” and “the process external coverage area of cleaning, repairing of your house?! And did and re-coating a roof.

Did you know that you know that the recWhile all those the roof makes up ommended timeframe to descriptions reveal for 30% of the total check and inspect your the basics of the roof roof is every 2 years, at external coverage restoration process, least?! area of your house?!

I like to add another perspective and a bit So what can you do: more depth to the meaning of Roof Restoration and that ●Visually check your roof, even from is sustainability. the ground and without climbing ladI trust that you will agree with me that ders, unless you are OK with height or waste decrease, expenditure decrease, your roof is flat. and wise budgeting would be benefi- ●Clear the trees close to the roof or cial for your family, lifestyle and vi- overhanging the roof. Mould and alsion. All that can be achieved by ‘fix- gae LOOOOVES shady spots with liting’ and ‘looking after’ things rather tle to none airflow. than replacing them. This applies to ●Check the your car, your fence, your kids’ bikes, flashings around your shed and your roof. the vent pipes, This is how I love to marry a tangi- seals around ble maintenance action with a tangible your skylights environment-conscious action: regu- and test the inlarly check your roof, restore it when tegrity of those needed and give it an extra 20 years seals and boots. of servce rather than just replace it af- The harsh sun ter 20 years (or so) of covering your in the tropics home contents. destroys things

⹂

PAGE 16 | townsvillewomen.com

pretty quickly. ●Check for cracked or dislodged tiles ●Call us if you are unsure if certain issue is a potential problem What can we do: ●All of the above, if you want your roof checked. ●Give you a quote upon request. Give you a pre-sale or pre-purchase report and a quote to take to the Real Estate. ●Apply a highly effective heat-reflective coating to your roof and external walls. ●Match your previous favourite colour or completely change the colour of your roof, repaint your gutters, change your gutters, match your driveway to your screen door or match your screen door to your gutters. ●Restore your roof and restore your faith in trades people.

Call Roofguard today for a roof assessment and quote.☺

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 29

The Benefits of Massage

by Linda Ferarr from Beau Shea Massage & Beauty

Did you know that a massage brings about many important health benefits and that the Chinese started using massage to heal the body as far back as 5000 BC. As our days get shorter because our lives get busier, we forget to take the time out we need to de-stress and massage not only relaxes your body it quietens your mind and has so many other health benefits.

Not only do we suffer physically, mentally and emotionally in our everyday busy lives but so do the people around us. We don't mean it but our pressures get the better of us sometimes and we project these negativities onto the people we love.

So why do we feel selfish and guilty when we want to get a massage?

Maybe because a massage is still looked at as a self-indulgent EXTRA luxury and it shouldn’t because of the all benefits it has on our bodies.

• Massage calms the nervous system and promotes a sense of relaxation and wellbeing.

• Massage reduces tension and anxiety.

• Massage improves blood circulation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to the cells.

• Massage stimulates the lymphatic system, which carries away the body's waste products.

• Massage prevents and relieves muscle cramps and spasms.

• Massage therapy can help with pain management in conditions such as arthritis, sciatica and muscle spasms.

• Speeds recovery from sports injury and fatigue • Increases the blood’s oxygen capacity by 10-15% So why not consider massage appointments as a regular part of your health and wellness plan as it truly is an investment to your overall health.

Also beneficial to your body is treating yourself to an infra-red detox cabin session before you massage.

Infra-red detox cabins are frequently recommended by medical professionals to relieve pain and even prevent illness.

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Some of the benefits of having an infra-red session are: • Pain Management • Detoxification • Relaxation and stress relieve • Weight loss • Skin health • Increases circulation • Assists with insomnia and anxiety In today’s fast paced world we are rarely able to make time for ourselves, to relax and just let our bodies rest. It is proven that stress pays such a large part in our physical health and mental well- being. So a detox cabin session and a relaxation massage is a great way to have some relaxation time. So make a date with your massage therapist or give us a call and book an appointment today.☺

"Sunrise at Alma Bay"

by Megan Lyons

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 31

2018 Celebrating 10 years of CommUNITY Health, Wisdom & Inspiration h t 4 1 ly

Ju

Augu st

ay d h t r Bi Party

www.sundalah.com.au PAGE 32 | townsvillewomen.com

26th

Sunda lah Sunda y

The Return of Spirituality

by Leonie Christensen from Spiritual Whispers

F

irstly, what is Spirituality? Well, it is a very broad subject and means something slightly different to each individual. It is something that is more and more talked about these days, yet still it is often misunderstood as people fear the unknown.

All religions refer to Spirituality in one form or another. A belief in something, having faith and they preach this to people. For me, that is where the big differences lay.

To me, Spirituality is very personally and individually a “Belief ” system, with a few guidelines, but no actual preaching at anyone. I find Spirituality as a way of finding my path and reconnecting to myself, to nature, to ancient knowledge and inner wisdom. Learning how to live on this beautiful planet in peace and harmony. Learning to incorporate the old wisdoms with the new, to find a natural balance.

It’s a search for inner meaning, discovery and sharing this with others, not preaching it to them, but teaching them. It is a passion for life itself and the possibilities of what could be if I simply believe.

I believe there is something more, something bigger than me. I find it to be calming, peaceful, tranquil and very balancing.

It doesn’t mean that I am going to turn into some all-mighty being or guru. It doesn’t mean that I am above human feelings. It simply means that I am more at ease with where I am and where I am going. With this knowledge, I can create a better journey of life for myself and those that join me on the journey. The more I get in touch with Spirituality, the wider becomes my wisdom to enjoy this life passionately. So, for me, Spirituality is discovering my wisdom within and using it to

create a wonder filled life. This is a path that more people are reconnecting with and the flow of this can only be for the greater good of all. This is the beginning of the return of Spirituality. Oxford dictionary meaning : The quality of being concerned with the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things; the shift in priorities allows us to embrace our spirituality in a more profound way; a deep sense of spirituality that connects them to the natural environment.

Contact Leonie if you'd like to know more about Spirituality, or any of her healings and offerings.☺

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 33

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Beliefs (pt 2)

by Lois Lovegrove from Here to Heal

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eliefs are what define you, they are the Architects of your life, of the way you act, the way you speak, interact with others, and they completely control your life.

There are 4 types of beliefs, Core,

Inherited, Past Life and Soul, each of them has been created in a different way and they all help create your thoughts, actions and reactions to life.

In this issue I am going to talk about Inherited Ancestral Beliefs, and their affect in your life.

When you are born you not only inherit your looks from your families DNA, but also their belief patterns as well, it’s a lucky dip as to what beliefs and physical shape you got from

the genetic pool.

This is one of the reasons that children all brought up the same way, can all turn out to be so different, react and behave in total differently to the same instances (Astrology, Numerology, Human Design, can all play a part in this as well, but my belief is that your beliefs will trump all of these other things). You may get one that is a “Drama Queen”, one that is a “Whatever, couldn’t give a sh*t”, one that is loving and caring to all of mankind and another that ‘It’s all about me” and you are left scratching your head as to “How did this happen?” or “What did I do to deserve this?”. It’s the same as why we have different body shapes, (my sister envies my waistline and I envy her slim thighs) it’s your genetic inheritance.

This what makes humans so fascinating, we are all uniquely different and if we embraced that fact, rather than wanting to look,

act and sound the same as others, life would be a lot more interesting and exciting and a lot less stressful.

A lot of your work ethic, your relationship patterns, what you believe about yourself, fears and phobias, and unfortunately racism and bigotry, can be traced back to your Ancestors, and there are many that no longer serve us or have any relevance in today’s world, especially around a woman’s role in life and money.

They can be changed and there are many different ways to do it e.g.

Thetahealing, EFT, Kinesiology, so don’t let the past stand in the way of you having an amazing life.

Call Lois today to learn more about clearing your past to live a better future.☺

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 35

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Redefine Your Future

by Jennifer Ironside from 2B Whole

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elcome to Winter! Who else has been feeling the chills over the past few weeks? Things are getting so dry and barren looking I was thinking there are different stages of life where we can experience a chill and maybe life is a bit icy and remote much like winter when nothing is growing, things are cold, dry, and not particularly moving forward.

We can often lose ourselves in these seasons of life and let’s face it they do happen and it feels like it will never end sometimes.

Have you had life seasons like this?

What did you do to move forward?

You know at one point in my life I was seriously feeling as though this chilly dead stage of my life would never end!! I was a single mum at the time and had my 3 gorgeous kids - however I may not have really thought they were all that gorgeous at times right then – whilst I loved them to bits it simply wasn’t enough. I wondered how on earth I was ever going to make ends meet. I wondered who would ever want a single mum with 3 kids, and I wondered what on earth was I doing with my life as being at home simply wasn’t going to cut it for me especially as the kids were now all in school! One thing I did know I was determined to lose Centrelink!!

By 35-40 years of age I was flat out planning what was for dinner or even

plan the week ahead, let alone a year ahead or to really know what I wanted to be doing in 5 or 10 years’ time let alone create a picture of it!! Has anyone else felt like me at some point?

Or maybe you feel like this right now.

There is so much pressure at times on people and even more so these days to either have a career or a business or just to know what you are meant to be doing in life that it ends up feeling overwhelming.

More often than not there is little to no instruction or direction to help you decide – it is simply assumed that you should know!!

For some it’s easy for others not so easy this can happen at all stages of life from leaving school to waking up one day with toddlers under foot.

And you’re 50+ and your retirement job has disappeared, or your marriage of 30years is suddenly over!

So we are left asking ourselves, or being pressured to know 'how do I find my purpose? How do I create my future? How do I know what I’m meant to be doing?'

The answer can be found through some simple strategies and steps we can take to uncover and identify what it is you want. But it also takes some time to create the life and know what you want to do. Wherever you fit know that you are not alone in this, in fact it’s more common than you

realize. There are three simple steps which will set you on the path to defining and redefining your future and having the adventure of a lifetime.

Redefine your Future: 1. Create your Vision 2. Set your Goals 3. Action Steps Walk through the adventure of uncovering and creating your best life!

Yes finding the treasure you didn’t know existed! Show you how you can decide! Partner with us and get ahead with some interactive fun filled activities.

For more information and support to Redefine Your Future, I’d love to hear from you!☺

To register for Jen's upcoming Vision Board Workshop, call her today on 0447 444 482.☺

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 37

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Protecting your financial future - by Leisa Quagliata

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ow will you protect your family’s financial future?

Life insurance, like Superannuation is something that most people always put it off until tomorrow. But can your family really afford not to have it?

Imagine it is 9 o’clock at night and suddenly there is a knock on the door, you open it and there is a policeman standing in front of you. In an instant, life as you know it is gone forever.

Your head feels like it’s underwater and you can no longer hear the policeman talking. You have gone into shock thinking about how are you going to tell the children.

What’s worse, how are you going to pay the bills? You’ve got a mortgage, school fees, daycare, car loan, credit cards, the list is endless. How will you ever survive?

We always think this could never happen to me, but I recently listened to a podcast where a 24 year old women lost her 52 year old Mum to a brain aneurism and 2 years later her 28 year old husband to a silent heart attack.

Two family members in their prime, gone in the blink of an eye. So I’d like you to take a moment to think, would you and your family be able to withstand the financial impact of losing a close loved one? Especially if that person was the main breadwinner of the family.

According to leading researcher Rice

Warner, a typical couple aged 40 with children, require life insurance cover equal to about ten years income of the higher-earning partner. This recommended amount is just to repay debts and maintain a base current living standard following the death of a partner.

Many Australians live in a false sense of security mistakenly believing their default insurance through Superannuation will be enough. However, the average level of default cover through super is approximately $200,000. This falls well short of the $680,000 required for an average family with a mortgage.

With policies available for less than

$5/day ($500,000 benefit), isn’t it time you gave your family some peace of mind?

Lastly, Life insurance is not a one size fits all so it is best to speak to a licensed financial adviser or insurance broker to discuss what is right for you and your family.

If you’d like a complimentary assessment on your family’s needs, please contact our office today and quote Townsville Women Magazine.☺

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 39

Poppin' Mad

Popcorn is a popular snack. We all grab a box at the cinema, or nuke a pack of buttery microwave popcorn for a weekend Netflix binge.

Popcorn is also often underrated with most eaters just enjoying this snack with a sprinkling of salt and butter.

We're about to change the way you look at Popcorn!

POPCORN: The basics

Plain popcorn is naturally low in fat and high in fibre making it a healthier snack than say, a packet of crisps. However, like any snack, it's best enjoyed in moderation - especially when we start dressing it up with toppings containing salt & sugar!

Air-Popped is best - but here at Townsville Women HQ we opt for a stove top method using a tablespoon of coconut oil to 1/2 cup of corn ratio. This produces approx 14 cups of cooked popcorn (enough for all the family!)

For a quick simple flavouring sprinkle warm popcorn with a small amount of salt (we love the Veggie Salt!).

Mix it up with following simple variations: Salt n Pepper - add cracked pepper Sweet n Salty - add some sugar Cinnamon Donut - add cinnamon powder and sugar Powdered Sugar - add icing sugar Garlicky Goodness - add garlic powder (Due to the experimental nature of our Popcorn creations, we don't have precise measurements)

PAGE 40 | townsvillewomen.com

Popcorn makes the perfect attendance gift for events such as baby showers, weddings and parties.

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 41

Pop In the Kitchen All recipes use plain popping corn. Pop using your preferred method (we love the stove top with a little bit of coconut oil).

Don't use flavoured microwave popcorn!

Experiment with desired flavours and quantities.

LOADED POPCORN Swap the deep fried chips out for some fresh popped corn instead.

Fry some diced bacon in a small amount of oil until almost crispy.

Turn off the heat and add popcorn - stir throughly so that the popcorn can soak up the flavours from cooking.

Turn out onto a platter and top with grated cheese, a sprinkling of crushed pepper and other garnished as desired.

VARIATIONS Top with shredded baby spinach Cook shallots or Chives with bacon Use a variety of cheeses such as mozarella or parmesan Add some grated carrot and saurcraukt

PAGE 42 | townsvillewomen.com

SWEET CURRY POPCORN Looking for a savoury snack that replaces flavoured peanuts? Try this curry popcorn with a sweet twist!

Combine 125g butter, 5 tablespoons of sugar and 2 tablespoons of curry power in a saucepan.

Heat gently over medium heat until butter has melted and sugar starts to disolve.

Remove from heat and pour over lightly salted popcorn. Stir until evenly coated.

Allow to cool slightly before eating.

STICKY DATE POPCORN Swap the saucy pudding for some of this delicious sweet popcorn.

Combine 125g butter, 3/4 cup of brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of honey in a saucepan over medium heat.

Cook, stirring, for 5 to 7 minutes or until sugar has dissolved. Bring mixture to the boil.

Boil, uncovered, without stirring, for 5 to 8 minutes.

Remove from heat and add 1 cup of diced dates and spread out on a non-stick baking tray. Allow to cool before eating.

Local Cafe's getting creative! left: Loaded Ice Mocha with Popcorn from Leafwood Cafe. below: Salted Popcorn and Caramel Slice from The Cafe by Luvbite Creations

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 43

Open Day Taster Sessions Saturday 4th August 2018

9.30am to 5.30pm 45min sessions with 15min intervals

Free Entry See Facebook event for more details.

Beginners Bump & Grind Twerk - Cabaret Show Girl - Chairs Gatsby - Tap Vogue Femme Silk & Feather Fans Thighs, Abs & Butt Fitness Burlesque Floor Work

613 Flinders Street, Townsville

Phone: 0458 787 533 E: vavoomroom@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/vavoomroomnq

Dance fitness with a difference 18+ Only, All Abilities.

PAGE 44 | townsvillewomen.com

Call Us Crazy... And We'll Agree!

by Bec Townsend from Peggy the Kombi

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ld Cars - you either love them or you don't. When we first started talking about buying our VW Kombi there were two types of responses.

Column A was "Oh that's so cool!", whereas the much lounder Column B said things like "you are a pair of bloody idiots" followed by horror stories involving the cost of repairs and the many breakdowns that we are sure to experience.

After going ahead and buying said Kombi, I must admit that after the initial breakdown and mechanics bill I was starting to sway a little in my resolve and thinking that maybe it wasn't such a smart idea afterall.

But then something happened - we got her home from the mechanics, loaded up the kids and the dogs and hit the road. That was all it took - seeing the kids laughing and chatting while the wind blew through the wound down windows while we pottered along the highway at our top speed of 90k's, I was overcome with a sense of absolute content.

In that moment the car became more than just a car - she became part of our family.

Talk to any car fanatic and they will talk of their vehicles the same way.

My uncle has a Torana from the 1970's stored in a shipping container, partly restored, but mostly just waiting for the day it drives on bitumen

again. Talk to him about it and his entire face lights up as he tells the story of a hard to find part that he stumbled upon at a Swap Meet, or how he will drive one of his granddaughters to their High School formal one day.

Those of us with these old 'pieces of junk' see past the spots of rust and know what it's like to spend hours online in an attempt to source a particular part that might save us a few bucks at the mechanics. We are constantly stashing away every spare dollar for the 'rainy day' where we might just have that predicted breakdown and need a towtruck.

We nod and smile when people call us crazy because we know that might just be the case, but we own that label with pride. We even join clubs with other 'crazy' people like ourselves because they 'get' it.

Someone once asked me why Kombi's are 'everywhere'. They are on jewellery, on beach themed homewares, on phone cases, in wedding photos...

WHY? I thought about this for a little while before answering...

It isn't the Kombi. It's what they represent (and this goes for any classic car).

Think about life in the 60's, 70's and even 80's. Before technology, before power windows and this crazy thing called air conditioning. Life was simpler then. Kombi's go hand in hand

with the Surf Culture, Hippies, Peace signs and all things laid back and funky. But they also represent long road trips, a sense of adventure and where the journey is more important than the destination.

Talk to anyone who grew up in the era where these old cars were brand new and they will usually share a memory with you. With our Kombi we've been told all sorts of stories from the parents who road tripped around Europe in one, to the guy who has restored three of them, to the guy who was conceived in one!

To me, it's the feelings these old cars invoke that far override the actual car itself.

These old cars, are more than just cars.â˜ş

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 45

Ladies night

On 28th June 2018, 40 local women gathered at Crown on Palmer for a night of social networking...

PAGE 46 | townsvillewomen.com

Words from a Celebrant

by Leena Coutts from Marry Me North Queensland

H

ello, my name is Leena Coutts, I am an authorised marriage celebrant, and I love my job. I get to meet couples at their happiest. From the time we meet over a coffee or a glass of wine, to the planning of their ceremony, it is a relaxed, laidback, enjoyable atmosphere.

My love with weddings began as child. Everything about them fascinated me, from the gorgeous white dresses to the pretty flowers.

These days of course its more about two people falling in love ready to make a commitment to each other.

Being able to be a part of that, creating a beautiful ceremony, sharing a laugh and sometimes a tear, that’s

truly humbling.

I truly believe, whether you’re planning a formal, back yard or an elopement ceremony, it is vital that you connect with your celebrant. That is why I recommend you meet with a few celebrants before making one of the most important decisions in the planning of your ceremony.

Authorised Marriage Celebrants perform 80% of the marriages in Australia, and now with marriage equality in Australia, that figure is expected to rise.

The beauty of a civil ceremony is, it’s all about the couple. More couples are personalising their vows and setting the scene the way they want it, departing from the traditional wedding format and locations. However, there are certain requirements that need to be met to make your

wedding legal.

To be eligible to marry in Australia you must be over the age of 18, not already married to another person and not marrying someone closely related to you.

So, if you’re looking for a friendly laidback celebrant and would like a no obligation meeting, please contact me on Facebook at Marry Me North Queensland, email at lcoutts@westnet.com.au, or you can phone me on 0437774068.☺

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Benefits of working with a Security Firm Opportunity to work at many locations A firm is likely to have contracts with many venues and events meaning that you could be patrolling a Rodeo one night and manning the door of a Nightclub the next.

Flexible Hours Due to a higher volume of work availalbe, a security firm is more likely to offer varying start times and shift lengths. This makes it ideal as a second job, or part time to fit around study or parental responsibilities.

Varying Roles Get the most from your security license with the variety of roles that a security firm can offer you.

Static, patrolling, crowd control, cash in transit and bodyguard work are just some of the work you could experience.

PAGE 48 | townsvillewomen.com

Mix of Colleagues If you get bored working with the same people day in, day out, then working with a Security Firm will suit you. Along with the variation in locations and roles, comes a variation in the people you will work with.

More work available A Security Firm can offer more shifts on a regular basis due to the higher number of contracts they are required to fill. Registering with a firm also increases the liklihood of extra shifts at special events as organisers tend to look to firms to fill their security requirements.

townsvillewomen.com | PAGE 49

Image taken at Eco Fiesta 2018 Queens Gardens

Thank You Townsville!

Thank you for reading our magazine and being a part of our Townsville Women community

Special Thanks to: BossVIP members (listed right) Danielle Malpas Sarah Irene Photography Matthew Allen Photography Melissa Littlejohn Verde Lifeware Rebecca Baker Tracey Bannerman Alison Rogers The Brewery Townsville Steph's Soaps Townsville Hotlips Seaboss Apparel

Georgie Eddington

Veronique Bickerstaff Bespoke Designer Living Enkindle Village School Jade Kennedy Sundalah VaVoom Room

& the Townsville Women Facebook Group members who submitted photos

TW Issue #3 due out 1st Sept 2018

BossVIP's - CMR Bookkeeping - A Colourful Read - Townsville Hotlips - Beauty by B Svenson - Marry Me North Queensland - Just Move It - Combat Women PT - Sempre Financial - 2BWhole - PRM Accounting - Jazzercise Townsville - Baby & Me 3D - Lone Wolf Security - Gaming Spot - My Spiritual Whispers - EW_PT - Lois Lovegrove - One Natural Life - The Rose Cottage Florist - Beau Shea Massage & Beauty - Roofguard Townsville - Ally Mitchelson - Illi Custometics